The Greatest of These.....

My daughter is brilliant. Though lately I have been struggling that some don't think my parenting is. My 2 year old is "spirited", "determined" and "strong minded" (in the words of others). Basically a lovely but sometimes grumpy little madam who has been known to push other kids and has bossy tendencies. People often give me looks (we've all had them), advice, book suggestions, programmes to follow, potty training techniques to use. 

Feeling actually quite judged sometimes, I want to film my daughter when she is patting my back when I sneeze, saying "your welcome" after I say thanks for the imaginary ice-cream she's given me or stroking a newborn's face so delicately. I want to show people and prove that she is a truly wonderful child who is kind and lovely. 

I shared this with a friend today whose 5 kids are all very different. A good old chin-wag gave me some perspective: A trillion parenting books have been written because some stuff works for some and some doesn't. If only there was a magic solution for sleep, meals, dummies, sharing, and life! We try our best (most of the time). We go with what works and we scrap what doesn't. We ask trusted sources for tips and help. And when a disapproving look or comment is given "we're working on it" whilst walking away does the job (with a couple of mental expletives!!) And in the words of the big man "the greatest of these is love". My child knows she is loved. Insanely, irrationally, unconditionally loved, beyond words. And that is my main goal for her everyday? To demonstrate true, biblical love. 

We'll get past the nappy, dummy, pushing, laughing inappropriately stage. But the love.....that's a keeper!!